GUM DISEASE SYMPTOMS
Gum disease is often silent, meaning symptoms may not appear until an advanced stage of the disease.
However, warning signs of gum disease include the following:
- Red, swollen or tender gums or other pain in the mouth
- Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating hard food
- Gums that are receding or pulling away from the teeth, causing the teeth to look longer than before
- Loose or separating teeth
- Pus between gums and teeth
- Sores in the mouth
- Persistent bad breath
- A change in the way teeth fit together when biting
- A change in the fit of partial dentures
PREVENTING PERIODONTAL DISEASE
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is caused when bacteria in plaque (a sticky, colorless film that forms in the mouth) builds up between the gums and teeth. When the bacteria begin to grow, the gums surrounding the tooth can become inflamed.
The main cause of periodontal (gum) disease is plaque, but other factors affect the health of your gums.
- AGE
- SMOKING/TOBACCO USE
- GENETICS
- STRESS
- MEDICATIONS
- CLENCHING OR GRINDING TEETH
- OTHER SYSTEMIC DISEASES
- POOR NUTRITION AND OBESITY
